General Foundation Programs in Oman: A Comparative Study of Standards and Outcomes

Abstract

This study primarily aims to compare the Oman Academic Standards for General Foundation Programs (OASGFPs) with the draft of the Oman Core Academic Learning Outcomes (OCALOs), identifying their similarities and differences and exploring their implications for the expectations and positioning of General Foundation Programs (GFPs) in the Oman Qualifications Framework (OQF). Using a qualitative document analysis approach, the study compares key elements of the two frameworks, including learning outcomes, curriculum structure, subject requirements, and international English language proficiency standards. The findings suggest that OCALOs can be viewed as a developmental extension of OASGFPs, introducing refined learning outcomes and curriculum innovations, including emerging topics like artificial intelligence (AI). However, several issues require further consideration, including inconsistencies in specifying instructional time across subjects and the extent of institutional flexibility. The study also highlights the need to review the targeted international English language proficiency levels to ensure alignment with entry-level and current postgraduate admission requirements. Given that OCALOs remain in draft form, the observations presented may assist policymakers, higher education institutions, and GFP educators in refining national foundation program policies and practices in Oman.